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CSS Past Paper 2023 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2)

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CSS Past Paper 2023 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2)
CSS | Past Paper | Group 5 | 2023 | Part 2 | Descriptive

Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2023 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2).

Question 2

Rural development has offered more scope under the urbanization trend in Pakistan. Discuss on the current scenario, issues, steps taken in past and your vision for the paradigm change in rural development.

Introduction

Rural development in Pakistan has become very important due to the fast urbanization going on in recent years. As cities grow, rural areas are facing both challenges and opportunities. This trend is forcing policymakers and planners to look seriously at rural development so rural population don’t migrate blindly to cities.

Current Scenario of Rural Development in Pakistan

Pakistan’s rural areas still make up about 63% of total population. These areas are rich in agriculture, livestock, and cultural diversity. But still, rural development is not at good pace. Some small programs and NGOs are working, but overall, there is lack of focus from government side. Infrastructure is weak, education and health facilities are poor, and job opportunities are almost none. That’s why rural to urban migration is increasing day by day.

Major Issues in Rural Development
  1. Poor Infrastructure: Roads, electricity, internet, and water supply are still very weak in most villages.
  2. Lack of Education & Health Facilities: Schools and hospitals are either not available or not functioning properly.
  3. Limited Employment: Most people depend on agriculture only, which is already facing problems.
  4. Urban Migration: Due to lack of facilities and opportunities, rural people are shifting to cities in hope of better life.
  5. Poor Governance & Corruption: Many development funds are wasted or misused.
  6. Gender Inequality: Women in rural areas have very little role in decision making or economic activities.
Steps Taken in the Past
  1. Five Year Plans: Govt tried to improve agriculture and rural areas through various development plans.
  2. Rural Support Programmes (RSPs): Like NRSP and PRSP, helped in small development projects and microfinancing.
  3. Benazir Income Support Program (BISP): Helped poor families in rural areas through cash transfers.
  4. Punjab Rural Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation Project (PRSWSSP): Aimed to improve hygiene and water access.
  5. CM Agriculture Emergency Program: For watercourses, wheat productivity, and livestock in rural Punjab.
Vision for Paradigm Shift in Rural Development

To really improve rural development, Pakistan needs a new and bold approach. My vision includes:

  1. Smart Villages: Use technology to connect villages with cities. Internet access and e-services should be provided.
  2. Agro-Based Industries: Promote small food processing and dairy industries in villages to create jobs.
  3. Decentralized Governance: Give more power and funds to local governments.
  4. Youth Empowerment: Skill training centers should be opened in rural areas.
  5. Gender Inclusive Development: Women should be supported to work in education, health and farming.
  6. Eco-Friendly Projects: Focus on solar energy, rainwater harvesting and organic farming.
Conclusion

Rural development is not just about building roads and schools; it is about improving quality of life. Pakistan can never grow unless its rural population is empowered and uplifted. Urbanization should not be seen as threat, but as an opportunity to develop rural areas in smarter and sustainable ways. Strong political will, good governance and community participation is key for future success.

Question 3

Integrated agriculture is an approach for sustainability of resources, profitability of farmers and economic growth of the country. Discuss the issues and solutions for the adoption of integrated agriculture in Pakistan.

Introduction

Integrated agriculture means combining different farming systems like crops, livestock, poultry, fish farming, and even forestry on the same farm to make full use of resources. It is a sustainable and environment-friendly way to increase income and reduce risks for farmers. In Pakistan, where most farmers are smallholders, integrated agriculture can be a game-changer — but many challenges exist.

Importance of Integrated Agriculture
  • Better use of land and water
  • Multiple income sources for farmers
  • Less waste and more recycling (e.g., animal manure used as fertilizer)
  • Reduced dependence on one crop
  • Better food security for rural households
Issues in Adoption of Integrated Agriculture in Pakistan
  1. Lack of Awareness: Most farmers don’t know about the benefits of integrated systems.
  2. Fragmented Land Holdings: Small land size makes it hard to manage multiple activities on one farm.
  3. Low Education Level of Farmers: Farmers often lack training and technical knowledge.
  4. Water Scarcity: Due to climate change and poor water management, irrigation is becoming difficult.
  5. Lack of Credit and Subsidies: Farmers can’t invest in poultry, fish farming, or other components.
  6. Policy Gaps: No proper national policy to promote integrated agriculture.
  7. Poor Extension Services: Government field officers are not trained or are very few in rural areas.
Solutions for Adoption of Integrated Agriculture
  1. Awareness Campaigns: Use radio, TV, and local meetings to educate farmers.
  2. Training and Capacity Building: Govt and NGOs should provide training programs on integrated farming.
  3. Financial Support: Banks should give easy loans and govt should provide subsidies for equipment, seeds, and livestock.
  4. Model Farms: Develop pilot projects in each district to show farmers how integrated farming works.
  5. Use of Technology: Encourage use of drip irrigation, solar energy, and mobile apps for better farm management.
  6. Strong Extension System: More agri officers should be sent to rural areas with proper training.
  7. Policy Support: Government should make national policy for integrated agriculture with clear goals and funding.
Examples of Integration
  • A farmer growing wheat can also keep goats and chickens.
  • Fish ponds can be made in low land areas while rice is grown around it.
  • Cow dung can be used to make biogas and the slurry can be used as fertilizer.
Conclusion

Integrated agriculture is not a new idea but in Pakistan it is not practiced on large scale. In current times of food insecurity, climate change and poverty, it is the need of the hour. If adopted properly, it can bring economic stability, better environment, and more jobs in rural areas. But it needs awareness, policy support, and proper implementation.

Question 4

Give an overview of rainfed agriculture in Pakistan. Discuss the issues, opportunities and give an insight into the actions required in order to realize the full potential of these areas to contribute in overall performance of agriculture in Pakistan.

Introduction

Rainfed agriculture (also called Barani farming) is the type of farming that depends only on rainfall instead of irrigation water. In Pakistan, about 20% of total cultivated area is rainfed. It is mainly found in Potohar region, parts of KP, Baluchistan, and some areas of Sindh. This type of farming is very important for food security and rural livelihoods, but it is still underdeveloped.

Overview of Rainfed Agriculture in Pakistan
  • Mostly found in Potohar Plateau, Tharparkar, D.I. Khan, and Awaran etc.
  • Main crops include wheat, sorghum, millet, pulses, and oilseeds.
  • Farmers also keep livestock, especially goats, sheep, and poultry.
  • Yields are very low compared to irrigated areas due to poor soil and water stress.
Major Issues in Rainfed Agriculture
  1. Uncertain Rainfall: Rain pattern is not stable, which affects crop growth badly.
  2. Soil Erosion: Due to heavy rains and no proper land management, topsoil is lost.
  3. Low Fertility of Soil: No proper use of fertilizers or organic matter.
  4. Lack of Technology: Farmers don’t have modern tools or knowledge.
  5. Poor Market Access: These areas are far from main cities so farmers can’t sell products easily.
  6. Neglected by Policies: Most government policies focus on irrigated areas only.
  7. No Water Storage Systems: Rainwater goes to waste due to no ponds or tanks.
Opportunities in Rainfed Agriculture
  • Rainwater Harvesting: Can be stored in small dams for later use.
  • Drought-Tolerant Crops: Crops like millet, barley, and chickpeas can perform well.
  • Agroforestry: Trees can be planted to protect soil and give extra income.
  • Livestock Integration: Animals can be used as backup income source during crop failure.
  • Climate Smart Agriculture: Techniques like mulching and zero tillage can help save moisture.
  • Organic Farming: Since these areas use less chemicals, they can be ideal for organic food production.
Actions Required to Realize Full Potential
  1. Government Investment: Special funds should be given for rainfed regions.
  2. Training Programs: Farmers should be trained in water conservation and climate-smart methods.
  3. Build Small Dams & Ponds: To collect and store rainwater.
  4. Introduce Better Seeds: Drought-resistant and early maturing varieties should be promoted.
  5. Soil Improvement Measures: Promote compost, green manuring, and proper fertilization.
  6. Research Centers: Setup agriculture research centers in rainfed zones.
  7. Market Linkages: Roads and cold storages should be built to connect farmers to markets.
Conclusion

Rainfed agriculture has huge potential to help Pakistan’s agriculture grow, reduce poverty and improve food security. But till now, it is ignored in planning and development. With the right steps, modern practices and farmer support, these areas can become strong part of national agriculture system.

Question 5

Write short notes on the following:

a. Agricultural practices to slow down the climate change
b. GMO and consequences
c. Precision agriculture
d. Failure of cotton crop in Pakistan

a. Agricultural Practices to Slow Down the Climate Change

Introduction

Climate change is increasing due to high carbon emissions and bad farming practices. Agriculture can also help to slow it down by using environment-friendly methods. Some practices include:

  • No-till farming to stop soil erosion and carbon release.
  • Cover crops to protect soil and increase organic matter.
  • Use of compost and manure instead of chemical fertilizers.
  • Agroforestry, planting trees with crops to absorb CO₂.
  • Efficient irrigation systems like drip and sprinkle to save water.
  • Crop rotation and mixed farming to keep soil healthy.

These practices not only reduce emissions but also improve soil health and productivity.

b. GMO and Consequences

Introduction

GMO means Genetically Modified Organism. In agriculture, crops are modified by changing their genes to improve traits like pest resistance, fast growth, or drought tolerance.

Examples: Bt cotton, golden rice, herbicide-resistant soybean.

Positive Consequences
  • Higher yields
  • Less pesticide usage
  • Drought and disease resistance
  • Improved shelf life of crops
Negative Consequences
  • Possible health risks (still debated)
  • Loss of biodiversity
  • Dependence on seed companies (like Monsanto)
  • Resistance development in pests

In Pakistan, GMO crops are used in cotton but proper regulation is still missing.

c. Precision Agriculture

Introduction

Precision agriculture means using modern tools and technology to apply the right input, at the right place, and at the right time. It helps farmers to save resources and increase yield.

Technologies Used
  • GPS-guided tractors
  • Drones for crop monitoring
  • Soil and weather sensors
  • Satellite imagery
  • Mobile apps for farm management
Benefits
  • Saves water, fertilizer, and fuel
  • Increases efficiency and profit
  • Reduces environmental damage
  • Helps in better decision making

In Pakistan, this system is still new and only used by large farms. It needs promotion and support to reach small farmers too.

d. Failure of Cotton Crop in Pakistan

Introduction

Cotton is called the “white gold” of Pakistan and is very important for our textile industry. But in recent years, cotton production has badly declined.

Reasons for Failure
  • Pest attacks, especially whitefly and pink bollworm
  • Poor quality Bt seeds and lack of seed certification
  • Climate change, erratic rainfall and heat stress
  • Water shortage and bad irrigation methods
  • Shifting to sugarcane and other cash crops
  • Low price and delayed payments to farmers

Due to these issues, cotton area and yield both decreased. To fix this, the govt must provide quality seeds, support prices, pest control, and research.

Question 6

Discuss on the degradation of old forests and values of the newly developed rangelands in Pakistan. Also describe your vision to conceive climate smart polices for forests sustainability.

Introduction

Forests are the lungs of Earth. In Pakistan, forests cover only around 5% of total land, which is far below the required level. Old natural forests are degrading fast, and at the same time, new rangelands are coming up as a replacement, but they cannot fully cover the ecological gap. If this trend continues, Pakistan will face serious environmental and climate problems.

Degradation of Old Forests in Pakistan

Pakistan’s old forests like coniferous forests in KP, mangroves in Sindh, and riverine forests in Punjab are under threat due to human activities and climate change.

Causes of Degradation
  1. Illegal logging: Timber mafia is cutting trees without control.
  2. Overgrazing: Livestock damages young trees and plants in forest areas.
  3. Urban expansion: Forests are cleared to build roads, cities, and housing schemes.
  4. Poor forest management: Lack of forest officers and weak policy implementation.
  5. Climate change: Less rainfall, droughts, and rising temperatures harm forest health.
  6. Forest fires: More frequent fires are destroying large areas, especially in dry season.
Impact
  • Loss of biodiversity
  • Increase in CO₂ and temperature
  • Soil erosion and landslides
  • Less rainfall and poor water cycle
  • Displacement of forest communities and wildlife
Value of Newly Developed Rangelands

Rangelands are large open areas covered by grasses, shrubs, and few trees, mainly used for grazing animals.

Newly developed rangelands have some value:

  • Provide grazing land for livestock in dry areas.
  • Reduce pressure on old forests.
  • Prevent desertification if managed properly.
  • Support rural economy through livestock products like milk and meat.
  • Can act as carbon sinks if planted with proper vegetation.

But still, rangelands cannot replace natural forests, especially in biodiversity and water regulation.

Vision for Climate-Smart Forest Policies

To protect old forests and support new growth, Pakistan needs strong, climate-smart policies. My vision includes:

  1. Afforestation Programs: Plant more trees with native species in degraded areas.
  2. Community-Based Forest Management: Involve local people in protecting and managing forests.
  3. Strict Action Against Timber Mafia: Use forest guards, drones, and legal punishment.
  4. Agroforestry Promotion: Plant trees along farms and canals to reduce pressure on natural forests.
  5. Forest Fire Management System: Install early warning systems and train forest staff.
  6. Introduce Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES): Give money or benefits to people who protect forests.
  7. Climate Resilient Tree Species: Use tree types that survive heat and low water.
  8. Mangrove Protection: Save coastal mangrove forests from sea erosion and pollution.
  9. Educational Campaigns: Spread awareness among school kids and rural people about forest importance.
Conclusion

Old forests are natural treasures that took hundreds of years to grow, but they are disappearing fast in Pakistan. While rangelands give some benefit, they can’t fill the role of natural forests. We need strong, smart, and climate-friendly policies to save our forests for the future generations. Without forests, there will be no balance in nature and no safety from climate disasters.

Question 7

Rangelands have considerable role in agricultural economy of Pakistan. Explain different ways and means for integrated management of rangelands and livestock production keeping in view the climate change in Pakistan.

Introduction

Rangelands in Pakistan cover almost 60% of the country’s land area, mostly in Baluchistan, Sindh, Southern Punjab, and parts of KPK. These areas are mainly used for grazing livestock, which is a big part of rural livelihood and national agriculture economy. But now, due to climate change, overgrazing, and poor management, rangelands are degrading fast.

To make them sustainable, we need integrated management that includes livestock, land, water, and vegetation altogether.

Role of Rangelands in Agricultural Economy
  • Provide grazing for sheep, goats, cattle, and camels
  • Source of milk, meat, wool, hides
  • Employment for nomads and rural families
  • Supports livestock export and dairy sector
  • Helps in soil conservation and carbon storage (if managed well)
Impact of Climate Change on Rangelands
  • Less rainfall and long dry periods → less grass
  • High temperatures → plant stress and desertification
  • More dust storms and soil erosion
  • Droughts → lower livestock productivity
  • Loss of biodiversity in plants and animals
Integrated Management of Rangelands and Livestock

1. Controlled Grazing:

  • Use rotational grazing to allow grass to regrow
  • Divide land into sections and shift animals regularly
  • Avoid overgrazing in one spot

2. Rangeland Reseeding:

  • Plant drought-tolerant grasses and shrubs
  • Use native species like Salsola, Panicum, etc.
  • Helps restore soil and stop erosion

3. Water Harvesting Techniques:

  • Build small dams, ponds, and check dams
  • Store rainwater for animals and plant growth
  • Avoids water loss during dry season

4. Livestock Breed Improvement:

  • Use climate-resilient breeds that survive heat and less food
  • Improve local breeds through selective breeding
  • Vaccinate animals to prevent disease

5. Agroforestry in Rangelands:

  • Grow trees and bushes that provide shade and fodder
  • Improves biodiversity and protects soil

6. Community Participation:

  • Involve local communities and nomads in grazing plans
  • Train them in better livestock practices
  • Share benefits from improved productivity

7. Use of Technology:

  • GPS mapping of rangelands
  • Mobile apps for weather and grazing advice
  • Drones for monitoring land conditions

8. Policy and Institutional Support:

  • Govt must make Rangeland Policy at national level
  • Give funds to provincial livestock and forest departments
  • Setup Rangeland Research Institutes
Case Study (Optional for Extra Impact)

In Baluchistan, projects like Livestock Support Program have shown success by involving locals and using native grass species to restore degraded land. Such models should be used in other provinces too.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s agriculture economy can’t grow without strong and healthy rangelands. But they are under serious threat from overuse and climate change. If we don’t act now, rural livelihoods and livestock sector will suffer badly. Integrated management with modern and local methods is the only way to make rangelands productive and sustainable again.

Question 8

Write short notes on any four of the following:

i. Laws of forests and wildlife in Pakistan
ii. Land reforms and its impact on agroforestry
iii. Wood based industries in Pakistan
iv. Social forestry and its value
v. Issues relating to Shesham and Eucalyptus
vi. Watershed management

i. Laws of Forests and Wildlife in Pakistan

Introduction

Forest and wildlife laws in Pakistan are mainly provincial, especially after the 18th Amendment. These laws aim to protect trees, wildlife species, and natural habitats.

Key Laws
  • Forest Act 1927: The oldest and most used law for forest protection.
  • Punjab Forest (Amendment) Act 2010: Gives more powers to stop illegal logging.
  • Wildlife Acts (like NWFP Wildlife Act 1975, Sindh Wildlife Act 2020): Control hunting and protect endangered animals.
  • National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan: Guides on preserving ecosystems.
Issues
  • Poor enforcement
  • Corruption in forest departments
  • Lack of awareness
  • Weak punishments for illegal cutting or poaching

ii. Land Reforms and its Impact on Agroforestry

Introduction

Land reforms in Pakistan were aimed at reducing feudalism and giving land to poor farmers. Major reforms happened in 1959, 1972, and 1977.

Impacts on Agroforestry
  • Positive:
    • Small farmers could use land for tree planting with crops.
    • Encouraged social forestry in some regions.
  • Negative:
    • Land fragmentation made agroforestry harder to manage.
    • Large landowners avoided reforms, so agroforestry stayed limited to small areas.
    • Lack of education and support meant people didn’t know how to combine farming and forestry.

iii. Wood Based Industries in Pakistan

Introduction

Wood-based industries are important part of Pakistan’s economy, especially for furniture and construction.

Types of Industries
  • Furniture industry (Chiniot, Gujrat, Peshawar)
  • Plywood and veneer factories
  • Match and paper production
  • Handicrafts and carving work
Problems
  • Dependence on Shesham, Eucalyptus, and imported wood
  • Deforestation leading to raw material shortage
  • Energy crisis affecting production
  • Lack of modern machinery and skilled labor
Way Forward
  • Encourage farm forestry to grow wood on private land
  • Support small-scale industries with training and tools

iv. Social Forestry and its Value

Introduction

Social forestry means planting trees by local people on community or private land to meet their needs.

Importance
  • Provides fuelwood, fodder, and timber for daily use
  • Helps in poverty reduction
  • Reduces pressure on natural forests
  • Improves soil, water, and climate
  • Involves women and youth in green development
Examples in Pakistan
  • Punjab Forestry Sector Project
  • One Billion Tree Tsunami also included community tree plantations

Social forestry works best when locals are involved and benefit directly.

v. Issues Relating to Shesham and Eucalyptus

Shesham (Dalbergia sissoo)
  • Popular hardwood used in furniture
  • Facing dieback disease in many areas
  • Affected by fungus and insect attacks
  • Needs research and disease-resistant varieties
Eucalyptus
  • Grows fast, used for timber and paper
  • Criticized for high water use and soil damage
  • Not good for agriculture lands or near water bodies
  • Some species are better than others – needs careful selection
Conclusion

Both trees are useful but need proper management and site selection to avoid environmental harm.

vi. Watershed Management

Introduction

Watershed is the area from where all water drains into a common outlet (like a river or lake). Managing this area wisely is called watershed management.

Importance
  • Controls soil erosion and flooding
  • Improves groundwater recharge
  • Increases agriculture productivity
  • Prevents siltation in dams like Tarbela and Mangla
  • Supports livelihoods through better land and water use
Main Activities
  • Afforestation in hilly areas
  • Check dams and bunds to slow down water
  • Contour plowing and terracing
  • Community participation in planning and protecting

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